Dunkirk and Rosslare Ports Secure €19.2 Million EU Funding for Sustainable Infrastructure Boost

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A €19.2 million investment from the European Commission’s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) has been confirmed to support critical infrastructure upgrades at Rosslare Port and Port of Dunkirk. The joint programme targets sustainability and resilience, focusing on port development that aligns with climate adaptation strategies.

The planned works include a major extension of Berth 3 at Rosslare Port—a move designed to accommodate larger vessels and increase handling capacity for freight operators. With maritime trade evolving rapidly, berth capability has become a key metric for port competitiveness.

The investment will also cover the installation of low-emission infrastructure. This means new Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) ramps in Rosslare, aimed at improving cargo handling and reducing truck idle time, a significant contributor to portside emissions. These enhancements are expected to streamline traffic flows, particularly for unaccompanied freight—already on the rise since Brexit altered trade routes.

In parallel, both ports will introduce onshore power supply (OPS) systems. These allow vessels to plug into the local electricity grid while docked, eliminating the need to run their engines and cut down on greenhouse gas emissions. For ports trying to balance growth with environmental responsibility, OPS is increasingly seen as a baseline requirement, not a luxury.

The programme is part of the EU’s wider strategy to future-proof transport infrastructure against climate risks while maintaining trade fluidity. For the Ports, which are positioned as a gateway for direct European freight routes, this upgrade could mark a shift in regional logistics dynamics.

The project is expected to begin in the near term, aligning with the EU’s 2030 climate and transport targets.